- India concerned over West Asia, Ukraine conflicts escalation.
- Russian envoy summoned after four Indians killed near Odesa.
- Government addresses safety of seafarers, energy security.
As the conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine intensify, India is grappling with two major concerns: ensuring the safety of its citizens, particularly seafarers, and safeguarding its energy security against potential supply disruptions.
In West Asia, fears of escalation have intensified, following allegations of Iran and the US striking key strategic locations, including military facilities and water desalination plants.
Further tensions have mounted with Iran-backed Houthi rebels who have launched ballistic missile attacks at Israel, as well as issuing threats of a naval blockade near Saudi Arabia, posing threats to yet another critical oil transit way.
At the same time, the war between Russia and Ukraine has also been stepped up, with both nations attacking the capital city and the important power supply and energy infrastructure.
Four Indians Killed In Odesa Attack
The Indian government has repeatedly expressed concern over these incidents. On Tuesday, the government summoned a senior diplomat from the Russian Embassy in New Delhi to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and conveyed its deep concern over the killing of four Indians in an attack near the Ukrainian port city of Odesa a day earlier. India also sought an explanation from Russia and reiterated its demand to ensure the safety of Indian citizens.
The MEA said the Russian diplomat was asked to convey India's concerns to the relevant Russian authorities, stating that continued attacks on commercial vessels leading to the deaths of innocent civilians are unacceptable and such incidents must be avoided.
ALSO READ: 4 Indians Killed, One Injured After Cargo Ship Attacked At Odesa Port In Ukraine: MEA
The Indian government has also summoned senior officials from the US and Iranian embassies over the past three weeks to discuss the deaths of Indian nationals in attacks linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Last week, senior MEA officials said 13 Indians have died so far in the West Asia conflict, while three others remain missing.
Most of those killed were Indian seafarers employed by international shipping companies. According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Indians account for nearly 13 per cent of the global seafaring workforce.
India Expresses Concern Over Rising Casualties
The latest casualties are linked to a commercial ship hit by a Russian missile near Odesa. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has also resulted in several Indian deaths. In May 2026, the Centre informed the Supreme Court that 49 Indians serving in the Russian military had died.
Since the war began, many Indians have been caught in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with some reportedly being forcibly recruited into military service and others losing their lives. While the West Asia conflict has witnessed heavy civilian casualties, Indians have also been among those affected. From the Russia-Ukraine war to the conflict in West Asia, the deaths of Indian nationals continue to remain a matter of serious concern for the government.
In West Asia, the risks remain equally severe. Around 20,000 Indian seafarers are believed to be working on ships operating around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest oil shipping routes.
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